Strategic Station Placement for Sustainable Commuter Rail Development in Texas

Rohitchandran Ravichandran

Texas Triangle Rail Group Data Research

Integrated Travel Research and Development

May 24, 2025

The Rio Grande Valley (RGV) in Texas faces growing challenges in mobility due to rapid urbanization, increasing traffic congestion, and limited public transportation infrastructure. This paper proposes a data-driven methodology for the strategic placement of commuter rail stations across three proposed rail routes connecting Mission, McAllen, and Brownsville. Utilizing Geographic Information Systems (GIS), regression analysis, and environmental risk assessment, the study identifies optimal locations based on population density, traffic volume, transit accessibility, and proximity to key facilities. Results indicate that McAllen, Brownsville, and Mission offer the highest ridership potential and infrastructure readiness. Recommendations focus on sustainable station design, regulatory compliance, and integration with existing bus networks.

Link to Study